Food and drink

Eating your way round the world can be quite an adventure. Even though the saying goes that everything tastes like chicken, you will definitely be surprised by the spices and different tastes of the world.

In most regions of the world you will not have a hard time
finding decent food since local and international choices are
widely available. With a little effort such as asking other
travelers, the locals or consulting your guidebook you will
probably find the best and cheapest deals in the narrow streets
away from the tourist spots. If you fancy the local food, always go
for the places where the natives eat.

Traveler's diarrhea - part of the jouney

When traveling on a budget, you will most likely stay out of the
most expensive eating places, although once in a while you should
treat yourself to a feast. Eating on the cheap may foster a few
hiccups with your stomach, but this is part of the backpacking
adventure and most travelers experience some sort of light diarrhea
when traveling for longer periods abroad. Make sure to take your
precautions, eat your vitamins and always drink bottled water - and
lots of it. Also wash your hands (or use dry wash
gel/antibacterial liquid) and if you stick to the old
philosophy of "boil it - peel it - cook it, or forget it", you will
most likely be safe and sound, but then you will have to stay clear
of much of the local cuisine and snacks - and that's really not
explordinary, is it?

Point and pick - or bring a phrase book

In some parts of the world the local language menu card will be
a challenge - there may not even be one at all and you will have to
do the "close-my-eyes-and-point" trick or look/ask around for your
favorite choice of meal. It's an exciting game, so at least get
acquainted with the most common dishes in the area you are
visiting, bring a phrasebook or look it up on your smart phone.
Vegetarians will have to work a bit harder and the menus and
choices will be limited in some parts of the world, but you should
be able to get by in most countries.

Drinking water

In most developing countries drinking water does not come
out of the tap. If you want a risk free adventure always drink
bottled water - and if it's not available, take precautions by
using some sort of water purification chemical or a portable water
filter before drinking the water. Same goes for drinking water from
streams, rivers and lakes, always boil it well and use a water
filter or purification chemicals.

Eat healthy

When traveling rough and on the wild side, make sure to eat and
drink regularly, never start skipping meals and avoid too much junk
food. It may seem like basic advice but it will help you to keep a
balanced diet throughout your journey.